Making efforts to develop game

IT HAS been a year since the Qatar Rugby Federation (QRF) was formed, with the strong support from the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC).

“We sincerely thank the QOC for the support. Within a year’s time, rugby has caught the imagination of fans. Many new players are being added to the roster while the club activities are in full swing,” QRF President Yousef Al Kuwari told Doha Stadium Plus. “We hope that by forming this committee, rugby and American football can find new athletes and fans in Doha, home to so many sports activities.”

Qatar, making steady progress in rugby, had finished runners-up at the Asian 5 Nations Tournament two years ago, narrowly losing to Malaysia in the final. They also won the Asia Championship Division 3.

“The Asian title made sure we’ve put ourselves on the rugby map in Asia,” said Al Kuwari.

The QRF also started a Sevens league early this year which opened up avenues for many aspiring clubs and players to participate in a full-fledged competition. Camels 1 had won the title, beating Hurricanes in the final recently.

“Rugby has a huge fan base which is a positive sign. We want to be a part of World Rugby as an associate member. We’ve the sevens league and we’ll continue to focus on it. We’ll also send teams to play in top Asian tournaments next year,” added Al Kuwari.